While it is a common misconception that a criminal trial will only ever end in a verdict of guilty or not guilty, there are many possible outcomes of a case. If you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey it is essential that you understand your rights, legal options, and all of the potential results of your trial. Work with an experienced Bergen County criminal defense attorney during your case for skilled representation and legal advice.
What Are the Possible Outcomes of a Criminal Trial?
A criminal trial is a legal proceeding in which an individual accused of a crime is determined to be either guilty or not guilty. The outcome can vary significantly depending on the details of the case. Below are the possible outcomes of a criminal trial.
- Guilty verdict: One of the most obvious potential outcomes of a criminal trial is a guilty verdict. If the prosecution proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime in question, they will be found guilty and be sentenced to prison, fines, probation, community service, or other penalties.
- Not guilty verdict: The defendant may also be found not guilty if the prosecution failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty of the crime. In this case, the defendant is considered acquitted and can walk free.
- Mistrial: A trial could also end in a mistrial if it is not completed and the judge or jury is not able to reach a verdict. This could happen if the jury can’t come to a unanimous decision, there was misconduct by someone involved in the case, procedural errors occurred, etc.
- Dismissal (with prejudice): The case could also be dismissed, meaning that it is over without a conviction or determination of guilt. Judges may dismiss a case if there is insufficient evidence, misconduct of the prosecution, procedural errors, a violation of the defendant’s rights, and more. When a case is dismissed with prejudice the charges cannot be tried again and the legal matter is over.
- Dismissal (without prejudice): A case can also be dismissed without prejudice, meaning that the prosecution has the right to refile the case at a later date, given that the statute of limitations has not expired.
- Plea bargain: Many cases end in a plea bargain. The defendant may agree to plead guilty to their offense or lesser charges in exchange for a reduced sentence. This benefits both the defendant and prosecution as it removes the uncertainty of a trial and results in a more lenient sentence.
- General continuance: A general continuance is a postponement of the case. A judge may allow the case to pause with a general continuance even if the defendant is technically guilty, as long as there are enough mitigating factors. The case can continue for months or even years and may ultimately be dismissed if the defendant has no prior convictions.
The above and more are possible outcomes of a criminal trial depending on the details of the offense and circumstances of the case. It is important to obtain skilled representation when facing criminal charges in New Jersey. Contact an experienced defense attorney today for more information.
